Students trying to avoid gaining the infamous “freshman 15” need not feel alone in the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. 

The Student Health Center and University Recreation provide a variety of services that cater to students’ nutritional and physical wellness. 

The Student Health Center offers both education and consultation resources to students. 

For freshman who may feel overwhelmed with the many different food options, speaking with a University dietitian could ease your mind when it comes to nutrition.

Students can make appointments with a dietitian at the Student Health Center. Appointments are free and can be booked by calling the appointment desk or online through the center’s website.

Ashley Pinet, a registered dietitian at the University, said she has seen eating habits of freshmen change dramatically in their new environment—some for the better and others for the worse. Students with unlimited meal plans often find themselves developing poor eating habits, Pinet said.

Pinet said she encourages students to try new things, and to get creative with what’s available to make healthier choices. 

“The freshman 15 is a little bit of an exaggeration”, says Pinet. “For the most part we find that students gain about 10 pounds or less, and some of that may be males who developmentally change, they start working-out more, they get an increase in muscle mass, so some of that weight gain is a good thing”. 

According to Pinet, University dietitians look at the overall picture of wellness, so in addition to nutrition, they address students’ physical activity and sleep habits. 

Pinet said she sees students for a wide variety of reasons. From those who just want general nutrition advice, to those who want to lose a few pounds. Some of the students she sees have diagnosed medical conditions like celiac disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and eating disorders.

Students can also connect with University dietitians online using the Student Health Center’s “ask the dietitian” service. 

The service allows you to submit general nutrition questions that will be answered within 48 hours. 

For those interested in weight loss, the Student Health Center offers a Take Weight Off program. 

This six-week weight loss program, which the Health Center offears twice during the fall semester, guides students in healthy eating and exercising. Registration for the program opened on Aug. 19.  

University Recreation offers fitness programs, services and facilities for students who aspire to live healthy and active lives. 

The Carmichael Complex includes a gym, recreation center, pool and outside basketball and tennis courts.  

Admission into these facilities requires a valid Wolfpack One Card. 

Club sports, intramural sports, group fitness classes and personal training are just some of what University Recreation’s fitness programs and services offer to keep students active. 

Information about how to join clubs, teams and classes can be found on the University Recreation website or at any facility.